European debut for Jeep Wrangler Mountain: the newest limited-edition model of the iconic Wrangler

February 21, 2012 , Auburn Hills, Mich. - This year, at the 82nd edition of the Geneva Motor Show, the Jeep® brand will showcase a Jeep Grand Cherokee production-intent sports concept and a Jeep Compass production-intent concept. Both vehicles anticipate the direction in which the Jeep lineup could evolve in 2012.

The Jeep Grand Cherokee production-intent sports concept offers a unique, aggressive flair with exclusive styling cues, combined with the efficiency of the new 3.0-liter V-6 turbo-diesel engine with Multijet II technology. The Jeep Compass production-intent concept features a unique all-black exterior treatment that delivers a different personality to the compact SUV.

Beside the two exclusive production-intent concepts, the special edition Jeep Wrangler Mountain makes its European debut in Geneva. The new limited-edition model of the iconic Wrangler pays tribute to outdoor enthusiasts, and it is showcased in an all-new Gecko body color.

Located inside of Hall 5, the Jeep exhibition area in Geneva covers 765 square meters (8,234 square feet). The stand was designed to communicate to visitors the extraordinary possibilities of use that belong to each model in the Jeep lineup, when driving on the most extreme off-road tracks as well as on ordinary paths. For this purpose, the combination of different materials and colors that characterize the floor surface were used to suggest different locations found in the real world.

On the floor, the resin-treated pavement features a particular ice effect to convey the idea of an arctic landscape; the slate grey suggests the asphalt of roadways; and again the resin-treated pavement with a beige coloring creates the effect of sand dunes in the desert. These are the territories where Jeep vehicles can better express their personality, and the locations where their extraordinary dynamic characteristics can be tested.

The Jeep brand stands for styling, functionality, craftsmanship and benchmark capability. Every Jeep vehicle offers versatility and class-leading capability for people who enjoy the outdoors and seek extraordinary journeys when driving on extreme terrains as well as in the city. The brand delivers an open invitation to live life to the fullest by offering a full range of vehicles that continue to provide owners with a sense of security to handle any journey with confidence. A brand boasting an extraordinary personality, Jeep has always been able to reinvent itself to offer innovative products that set the benchmark for an entire category of vehicles.

Jeep Grand Cherokee Production-intent Sports Concept

Jeep showcases in Geneva the European premiere of a Jeep Grand Cherokee production-intent sports concept – a design study developed to explore the stylistic potential of the Jeep flagship. The new sports concept features a unique exterior with distinctive design cues and black accents. The result: a Grand Cherokee boasting a distinct, aggressive flair and combining exclusive, sporty appeal with the efficiency of the new 3.0-liter V-6 turbo-diesel engine with Multijet II technology.

The exterior of the Jeep Grand Cherokee production-intent sports concept features a more streamlined appearance, thanks to the introduction of new roof-molding covers that replace the roof rack. The vehicle’s grille surround appears in gloss black with a mesh grille texture in Platinum Chrome. Black headlamp bezels and deep-tint sunscreen glass increase its sporty look. A Platinum Chrome lower fascia applique completes the unique front-end appearance. The new production-intent sports concept rides on 20-inch tires that surround one-of-a-kind black-gloss aluminum wheels to add to its aggressive, performance-oriented appearance. A black liftgate light bar and black chrome dual exhaust tips continue the “blacked-out” theme across the vehicle’s exterior.

The interior of the production-intent sports concept is enhanced by a leather-wrapped perforated heated steering wheel and ventilated sports-styled Nappa leather and suede seats. Real carbon-fiber accents are integrated into the instrument panel and door trim panels. Bright, racing-style brake and pedal pads add to the sporty performance look inside the cabin.

The Jeep Grand Cherokee production-intent sports concept is powered by the efficient 3.0-liter V-6 turbo-diesel engine with new-generation, 1,800-bar injectors and Multijet II technology developed and patented by Fiat Powertrain. The 3.0-liter CRD engine produces maximum power of 177 kW (241 hp DIN) at 4,000 rpm and torque of 550 Nm (406 lb-ft) at 1,800-2,800 rpm, and it is paired to the five-speed automatic transmission with Electronic Range Select (ERS). The 3.0-liter CRD powertrain is also offered in a low-output version, with 140 kW (190 hp DIN) of power at 4,000 rpm and 440 Nm (324 lb-ft) of torque across 1,600-2,800 rpm.

The new production-intent sports concept is equipped with the sophisticated Quadra-Trac II® 4x4 system with two-speed transfer case and Brake Traction Control System (BTCS) on both the front and rear axle to ensure benchmark off-road capability. Quadra-Trac II’s two-speed transfer case uses the inputs coming from a variety of sensors in order to determine tire slip at the earliest possible time and take corrective actions. The system uses Throttle Anticipate to sense quick movement in the throttle from a stop and maximizes traction before slippage occurs. When tire slippage is detected, 100 percent of the available torque is instantly routed to the axle with the most traction. Ultimate off-road capabilities are accomplished through the assistance of standard Hill Descent Control, for maximum downhill control, and Hill Start Assist, granting a smooth launch on a grade.

The equipment for on-board comfort and infotainment offers the latest technology and aims at transforming every journey into an absolute pleasure. In addition to the Uconnect® multi-media infotainment and navigation system with 6.5-inch touch screen, 30-gigabyte hard disk, USB compatibility, AUX port, DVD video and voice-activated Bluethooth Uconnect Phone, the production-intent sports concept offers a state-of-the-art audio surround-sound system from Harman Kardon®. This 825-watt, 19-speaker, one-subwoofer premium audio system offers world-class innovation. It features a 32-volt TPS (Tracking Power Supply) 12-channel amplifier that delivers outstanding acoustics and brings multi-dimensional quality sound for all interior occupants.

The new Jeep Grand Cherokee production-intent sports concept offers a vast array of advanced safety and security features that further highlight that technological innovation belongs within the DNA of the Jeep flagship. In addition to the standard safety equipment including Electronic Stability Control (ESC) with Electronic Rollover Mitigation (ERM), anti-lock brakes with off-road calibration, Brake Traction Control System (BTCS) and seven air bags (front seat, side, side-curtain front and rear and seat-mounted), the sports concept adds the following premium safety features:

Adaptive Cruise Control: the system decreases the vehicle’s pre-set cruise-control speed when closing in on another vehicle in the same lane or when another vehicle pulls into the same lane. The system will accelerate to the pre-set speed when the vehicle in front speeds up or moves into another lane

Forward Collision Warning: using forward-facing radar sensors, this system detects when the vehicle may be approaching another vehicle too rapidly and alerts the driver, so the driver can determine what action must be taken in order to prevent a collision

Blind Spot Detection: the system uses dual ultra-wideband radar sensors to aid the driver when changing lanes or if being passed by or passing unseen vehicles. The system notifies the driver of vehicle(s) in their blind spot via illuminated icons on the sideview mirror and with a driver-selected audible chime

Rear Cross-path Detection: in parking-lot situations, this system warns drivers backing out of parking spaces of traffic moving toward their vehicle. It activates any time the vehicle is in Reverse. The driver is notified of vehicle(s) crossing behind the vehicle via illuminated icons on the sideview mirror and with a driver-selected audible chime

Jeep Compass Production-intent Concept

In Geneva, the Jeep brand reveals to the European public a new production-intent concept of the Jeep Compass, featuring a unique exterior treatment and exclusive all-black look. The Compass production-intent concept is a design study that adds a number of styling cues and functional elements, including exclusive black-gloss front-end accents, step pad and 18-inch aluminum wheels. All of this provides a more distinctive appearance and personality to the compact SUV of the Jeep family.

The iconic, seven-slot Jeep front grille boasts black-gloss inserts that match the black-gloss headlamp and fog lamp surrounds. A black-gloss treatment also characterizes the roof rails and step pads. Special 18-inch black-gloss aluminum wheels reinforce the look of the vehicle.

Upon entry, leather seats deliver a touch of exclusiveness to the cabin. New front and rear bright sill covers complete the unique interior of the Jeep Compass concept.

The four-wheel-drive configuration of the Jeep Compass production-intent concept is matched to an efficient 2.2-liter turbo-diesel engine delivering 120 kW (163 hp) of power at 3,600-4,200 rpm and 320 Nm (236 lb-ft) of torque at 1,400-3,600 rpm. Benchmark all-weather capability in its category is provided by the full-time, active Freedom Drive I® four-wheel-drive system with Lock mode. The system is designed to give drivers year-round assurance with the ability to handle rough weather and low-traction conditions as well as slick roads that come with rain and light snow.

The compact flagship of the Jeep brand, the Compass combines SUV features and functionality with performance, handling and fuel efficiency. Completely redesigned in 2011, Jeep Compass boasts a refreshed, stylish exterior; an upgraded, high-quality interior compartment; improved driving comfort and handling; new 2.2-liter CRD engine available in both low- and high-output versions; and a new 2WD drivetrain option alongside the proven Freedom Drive I 4WD configuration that highlights the Compass’ dual nature: 4x4 capability and on-road sophistication.

Two trim levels are available for the standard Jeep Compass: Sport and Limited. Both versions are equipped with the efficient 2.2-liter CRD engine for both 2WD and 4WD Compass models. A low-output version of the 2.2-liter CRD engine producing 100 kW (136 hp) at 3,600-4,200 rpm is available on 2WD Compass models only. The 2WD configuration is also available on models powered by the 2.0-liter petrol engine. The 2.0-liter engine compliments the 2.4-liter petrol engine also available for the Compass lineup in Europe.

Jeep Compass features a full line of active and passive safety systems, including advanced multi-stage front air bags, side-curtain front and rear air bags, Electronic Stability Program (ESP) with Brake Assist, Brake Traction Control, Electronic Roll Mitigation, anti-lock brakes with rough-road detection and the sophisticated Hill Start Assist system.

Jeep Wrangler Mountain Special-edition Model

Building on the success of the recent special-edition Wrangler vehicles, Jeep introduces in Geneva another high-impact, limited-edition model: the new Jeep Wrangler Mountain. This special edition will arrive in European dealerships at the end of the second quarter of 2012.

With a unique exterior and interior design enhanced by exclusive styling cues, 17-inch wheels and authentic accessories by Mopar®, the new special-edition model is the vehicle for those who want to stand out in the open spaces. In expressing the endless possibilities of customization of the iconic Wrangler, the new Mountain edition pays tribute to those who actively enjoy the outdoors. With the Mountain theme recalled by the name of the vehicle, the special edition underlines that, thanks to benchmark technology and unmatched off-road expertise, the iconic Wrangler is capable of overcoming the most demanding trails and the most challenging driving conditions.

Jeep Wrangler Mountain is based on the Wrangler Sport model, and it will be available on both two-door and four-door (Wrangler Unlimited) versions. Exterior features include a unique black decal on the hood, front Mineral Gray grille and painted high-gloss Mineral Gray 17-inch wheels. Additional features are the ‘Mountain’ decal over part of the hood with latitude and longitude coordinates familiar to outdoor enthusiasts, side steps and black fuel-filler door from Mopar.

The new Mountain special-edition model will be powered by the 2.8-liter turbo-diesel engine producing 147 kW (200 hp DIN) at 3,600 rpm and 460 Nm (339 lb-ft) of torque at 1,600-2,600 rpm paired to a five-speed automatic transmission with Electronic Range Select (ERS). The diesel engine can be also equipped with a six-speed manual gearbox. Also available on the new special-edition model is the new 3.6-liter V-6 petrol engine delivering 209 kW (284 hp DIN) at 6,350 rpm and 347 Nm (256 lb-ft) of torque at 4,300 rpm. The 3.6-liter petrol engine is matched to the five-speed automatic transmission with ERS.

The equipment for the driver’s and passengers’ on-board comfort offers a leather-wrapped steering wheel with integrated controls, Dual Top configuration (i.e. the possibility to have both the soft and hard top options), Uconnect multi-media infotainment and new Winter & Sound Group package, including front heated seats and 368-watt, six-speaker Infinity audio system.

Jeep Wrangler is the original and authentic 4x4 that expresses the unconventional soul of the American brand by combining exceptional off-road capabilities with the driving enjoyment offered by a unique vehicle in the automotive industry. The undisputed off-road champion, Jeep Wrangler is appreciated worldwide for its outstanding off-road capabilities and its unique personality.

Jeep Brand

Built on more than 70 years of legendary heritage, Jeep is the authentic SUV brand with class-leading capability, craftsmanship and versatility for people who seek extraordinary journeys. The Jeep brand delivers an open invitation to live life to the fullest by offering a full line of vehicles that continue to provide owners with a sense of security to handle any journey with confidence.

The Jeep vehicle lineup outside North America includes Cherokee, Compass, Grand Cherokee, Patriot, Wrangler and Wrangler Unlimited. To meet consumer demand around the world, all Jeep models are available in right-hand-drive versions and with petrol and diesel powertrain options.

For 2011, Jeep brand’s worldwide sales increased by 41 percent versus 2010. Jeep was the Chrysler Group’s top-selling brand outside North America, rising by 46 percent versus the prior year and comprising 63 percent of the group’s total international sales.

Chrysler Group LLC sells and services vehicles in more than 120 countries around the world.